Staying Safe in Thailand: Roads, Water, Weather and Crime
Thailand is a safe place for most expats. The real risks are more ordinary than people expect: the roads, the sea, the heat and scams, far more than violent crime.
The short version
- Roads are the biggest risk: wear a helmet, never drink and drive, and get proper insurance.
- Swim at lifeguarded beaches and respect red flags, especially in monsoon season.
- Heat and floods: stay hydrated and follow local warnings in the rainy season.
- Scams cost expats more than street crime: never share codes or move money in a hurry.
- Save 1669 (ambulance), 191 (police) and 1155 (Tourist Police).
Road safety
Thailand drives on the left, and helmets and seatbelts are compulsory. The drink-drive limit is 0.05%, and fines for common offences reach 4,000 baht. Ride only with a licence and insurance, and take extra care at night and in the rain.
Sea, heat and floods
- Swim where there are lifeguards and obey red flags; rip currents are common in monsoon season
- Wear a life jacket on boats and check operators’ safety
- Drink plenty of water and avoid the midday sun in the hot season
- Follow local flood warnings and avoid driving through floodwater
Crime and scams
Violent crime against expats is uncommon; bag snatching and card fraud happen in busy areas. The biggest losses now come from scams by phone and online. If something happens, report it to the police and keep the report for insurance.
Health risks and being prepared
Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue, food hygiene and the heat are the everyday health risks. Keep health insurance in place, know your nearest good hospital, and keep your insurance details where someone else can find them.
Emergency numbers
For fire call 199. For floods and disasters call 1784.
Everything on staying safe
Guides from the JLIT library.
Hubs for staying safe
Insurance and protection.
Keep going
Questions newcomers ask
Is Thailand safe for expats?
Generally yes. The main risks are road accidents, the sea, the heat and scams, rather than violent crime.
What is the emergency number in Thailand?
1669 for an ambulance, 191 for the police, 1155 for the English-speaking Tourist Police and 199 for fire.
What is the biggest danger in Thailand?
The roads, especially for motorbike riders. Wear a helmet, ride sober and carry a valid licence and insurance.
